New BWCAW Collaborative promotes shared learning with the USFS
The Superior National Forest and stakeholders who care about the BWCA collaborate on topics including forest stewardship, visitor use, fire management, impacts and restrictions…
News
Fry Fire now 100% contained
A 72-acre prescribed burn was in progress just south of the BWCA, and declared a wildfire when a spot fire started beyond the planned burn area.
No longer “off the grid” – phone satellite coverage coming to BWCA
Full smartphone satellite coverage may be coming to the Boundary Waters sooner than you think. If made permanent, users would have the same level of connectivity that they experience daily. Wilderness areas like the BWCA could have full coverage by 2025. Search and rescue response expects to benefit…
Bill targets gray wolf endangered status
Lawmakers passed a bill titled “Trust the Science Act” which would delist gray wolves from the endangered species list. If the bill passes into law, management would shift from federal to state governance.
Everything you need to know about the new BWCA food storage order
The USFS has updated the regulations concerning food storage in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Hanging items in a tree or using approved bear-resistant containers has been a part of the regulations and rules, and now violations can bring penalties. Learn how to hang a food pack from a tree and travel safely through bear habitat.
U.S. House backs Rep. Stauber’s effort to reverse 20-year mining ban
A bill that could reverse the 20-year ban on mining leases near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) passed the U.S. House. It will soon move on to the Senate. Environmental advocates express concern over the reversal of mining leases that could impact watersheds in the region.
Tracking the Lynx: plan outlines habitat protection and monitoring for breeding populations
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently implemented a Draft Recovery Plan to strengthen habitat protection and support breeding populations of the Canada lynx. In Superior National Forest, the population has maintained healthy numbers for the past decade; however, it could change.
Future-proofing Minnesota’s forests: moving trees north in a warming climate
“Forests die fast and grow slowly,” says Lee Frelich, a forest ecologist with the University of Minnesota. In response to warming conditions, researchers in northern MN are planting trees normally suited for southern regions of the state. The USFS initiated an assisted migration plan to ensure the future of healthy forests.
After the Greenwood Fire: reseeding the forest
This spring, the USFS conducted aerial reseeding over hundreds of acres as part of ongoing efforts to restore a previously pristine area. The Greenwood Fire burned over 26,000 acres in the Superior National Forest (SNF) and earned the title of the most extreme wildfire event of 2021.
Tread lightly: reducing impact from hiking, biking, road and trail use
Spring thaw means roads and trails in northern MN may be muddy and more vulnerable to erosion. Visitors can follow Tread Lightly principles now and throughout the season while enjoying the outdoors.
Biden administration builds on historic efforts toward clean water
The administration recently announced a goal to protect 30 percent of lands and waters throughout the United States by 2030. This includes protection from mining impacts near wilderness areas such as the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA).
Decarbonize the parks: National Parks on Lake Superior move towards net-zero emissions
National parks around Lake Superior have executed long-term, sustainable options against carbon emissions. Recently, the National Parks of Lake Superior Foundation (NPLSF), in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS) took bold steps against climate issues. Grand Portage National Monument and Isle Royale National Park are two of the locations implementing changes.
Minnesota DNR survey indicates stable moose population
Minnesota’s moose population continues to be stable, according to a recent survey. Learn more about the findings from the MNDNR report and the ongoing conservation efforts in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.
Mining interest set to launch drill program within the Duluth Complex
Green Bridge Metals and Encampment Minerals are set to launch drilling exploration for copper-nickel and other metals near Lake Superior. Healthcare providers communicate concerns over the long-term impact of sulfide mining near the BWCA.
Northern Lights set to peak in 2024
Projections for an active geomagnetic season mean it’s likely the aurora will be prominent in northern MN and Ontario this year. Learn where to go and when for the best chance to see the skies ablaze.
What is the Boundary Waters worth? Counties and Forest Service disagree
Ongoing conflict focuses on financial value of wilderness and federal payments to compensate local governments for missed taxes.
Voyageurs National Park resumes operations as water levels drop
Some campsites and facilities are still closed, but a no-wake restriction has been lifted and boat tours have resumed.
Northern Minnesota tribe buys back 28,000 acres of forest lands to help restore reservation
The Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, with reservations at Lake Vermilion, Nett Lake, and Deer Creek, purchased former timber company lands from national nonprofit The Conservation Fund.
Historic high water hits Rainy Lake region
Catastrophic floods are inundating parks, historic sites, resorts, homes, experts say water may rise another 10 inches this week.
Rare October tornado reported in Boundary Waters
Unusual autumn twister leaves four-mile path of downed trees across popular BWCA wilderness lakes.